SPORTY youngsters took to the field last night as part of a summer soccer school bringing the youth of Darlington together.
More than 100 people have taken part in the Football in the Community programme, organised by the town's youth offending and community safety service team and Darlington FC.
Youngsters from Lascelles, Skerne Park, North Lodge Park and Branksome have been improving their skills in recent weeks. The scheme, which culminated in a match between North Lodge and Lascelles last night, has proved a success in curbing youth crime, with fewer crimes being reported in the areas concerned.
Kevin Stonehouse, Darlington's Football in the Community officer, said: "As well as young people enjoying playing football we make them aware why we are trying to reduce crime and they are responding magnificently."
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